Have you ever been driving your car and it shook so much you felt like you were on an amusement park ride? Well, here are three common problems that can cause a car to shake.

The most common reason for a car to shake is related to tires. If the tires are out of balance then the steering wheel can shake. This shaking starts at around 50-55 miles per hour (mph). It gets worse around 60 mph but starts to get better at high speeds.

Sometimes brake rotors can be the cause of shaking. If your steering wheel shakes while you are braking then the problem could be caused by "out of round" brake rotors. This vibration can also be felt through your brake pedal.

Another common problem that can cause shaking is when a brake caliper sticks on. When this happens you will experience a vibration through the steering wheel starting at 45 to 50 miles per hour. It will get very bad the faster you go, and you will also smell a burning odor when you stop.

The good news is that these problems are easily avoided or corrected.

The tire problem can be avoided by purchasing good quality tires and by having all of the tires carefully inspected when your car goes in for preventative maintenance service.

The brake problem can be avoided by including brake caliper service when your brakes are due for maintenance. This is particularly important for vehicles that have over 75,000 miles on them. And, like your tires, have all of your brake pads inspected as part of a regularly scheduled preventive maintenance program.

In fact, by sticking to your manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance program, you can avoid or predict these problems. Normally, the brake and tire inspections are performed when you have an oil change. In the case of customers who put very little mileage on their cars, this will be performed at the six month vehicle check-up.

Tires wearing in a strange way or having a wheel that's out of round can both be signs of what's causing a vibration issue. If one of the front or rear brake pads (out of four) is seen wearing more than the other, this is a sign that the brake caliper is sticking.

There are many other things that can cause your car to shake. Please use the Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) diagnostic form on our website. This will help get to the root of the problem quickly and efficiently. Or, you can download a form we developed specifically for this problem by clicking the button below. Either of these can be taken to your auto shop to help in correctly identifying the problem.

Need to stop your car from shaking? Make an appointment and we'll check it out.

Brian England, the current president of BA Auto Care (formerly British American Auto Care) got his start with an auto apprenticeship in a small town ... read more

tasha

I have a 1992 Lincoln town car and when I drive my car shakes so bad it sounds like its going to fall apart. when I get up to 55 mph the shaking will stop! Can someone please help me out because I don't want to put money into different things and it not be it.

Hi Tasha, I would start with going to the auto shop you use and going on a road test with a technician. If they suggest spending .5-1.0 hrs. labor to check your car then invest in that, you don't want have anyone guessing. The symptoms sound bad so it should not take long to find.

D P

Probably your rims,get new ones i had same issue got new rims and tires problem solved

Brian England

I suggest you have your car checked by a technician to see what is causing the problem, if you go to http://www.britishamericanauto.com/car-repair-diagnostic-forms/ select the NVH form, fill it out and give this to the technician.

I have changed driveshafts, all bearings all rotors, lower arm link, engine mountings, brake pads and serviced callipers, suspension bushes and mountings,straightened my rims, on wheel balance and alignment. I thin I am only left with the tyres and shocks. Before I set my car on fire. The vibration is not in the steering wheel but in the seat and it comes more pronounced only AFTER a brake at highway speeds.

Dave Gomez

Hey my 99 bmw 740i was doing the same thing "Shaking" and it was SO Annoying!! I had warranty and the dealer I bought my car from recommended a mechanic they said that's great and they deal with him always.. So I took it in and they Changed the Abs control unit, Brakes/rotors & calipers, all rims were checked and they were not bent so all tires were replaced. They did alignment and balancing when tires were changed!! They even changed my lower & upper Control arms, tie rods and few other things!.. THE PROBLEM WAS STILL THERE!!! WOW UGGHH
I was so upset bcuz they charged the hell out of my warranty company which I had to pay deductibles for some jobs and they kept my car for over a month.. I left and chose to go to my uncles shop! I would have went there from the beginning- But, the warranty company was not one that my uncles shop had a contract with!! So what my uncle did is, order the front Bushings and they got delivered within the hour to his shop!!! He put my car up on the rack Aka Jack installed the bushings for me. The part cost Only $40 total and labor was free Family discount ;) After the bushings were installed I took my car for a spin and....... Walla Problem solved!! I was SO HAPPY All along the problem was the bushings. The other shop charged my warranty company with parts/labor and a month of renting a car close to $7k. All along, $40 bushings were the issue... Ok hope some1 can benefit from reading this! Thanks for reading and good luck!!!

lou f

I have a 2008 BMW 528XI.
I was having terrible steering wheel shaking. The BMW forum gave me the best clue which was verified by the "Bentley" service manual......control rod bushings. This is probably what you had changed out. I replaced the 2 control rods/bushings, but a good mechanic can change out the bushings.

Bryan Mcadam

Bmw are notorious for needing front end jobs. I was told I should expect this on my 95 740i every few years !! I spent the money on a whack of money on replacing mine when ball joints were loose. Apparently, not even a week later, I put my discs out on a hot day going through the Rockies . Bad wobble when braking so I drove it like that for a short while until I could get diSC replacement again! Nice drive again for about 2 weeks now I'm getting a wobble at 70 ish but not not so much when braking!? I understand it could be rims or tires or something loose. Should I just start with a wheel balance and an alignment or could it just be my tires?

Brian England

Hi Bryan, I a firm believer of having the basics checked first. If you go to our website and click on the diagnostic forms there is one related to the issues your having. Fill out the form and give it to the technician. Also go on a test with the technician and show him what you are experiencing. Let them diagnose the problem. It's worth paying for an hours labor to know that everything has been checked and what cost to fix the problem is. I hope this steers you in the right direction. Brian

Brian England

Hi Maurice, The way we start with this sort of problem is to encourage our customer to download the Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH) form from our website, see diagnostic forms. This form helps you pin down the problem so a technician can diagnose the the problem. I hope this helps. Brian

Chris

My car runs smooth for awhile and then suddenly bad shaking creeps out as I accelerate or even have it on cruise control when driving on the highway. As I brake the shaking stops but as I accelerate again it starts shaking (Highway 65+mph). When I drive in the city the car runs smooth though.

Dj

I have the same problem with my van. I know its not the tires or breaks because in park and revving the engine at a certain rpm it will start to vibrate. If I go 55-65 it vibrates really bad but at 70-75 the vibration will usually stop and if I gun it from a stop it will do it at low speeds??? So it seems to be more connected to the rpms then speed. I've had my mechanic look at it and did a major tune-up and its still happening...... he claims its ok and nothing is loose but the way it vibrates and shakes.. can be very nerve racking!
Did you find out why your cars vibrating? Any thoughts?

Brian England

DJ. What part of the vehicle is vibrating? Steering wheel, through the body ?? Brian

Dj

The whole front of the vehicle vibrates. I feel it in the steering wheel and the gas pedal. Over about a week I have to reposition all my mirrors. The van has a new motor, year or less, and about everything in between has been fixed or replaced. And now it started this horrible vibrating! Uggg

Brian England

When any vehicle vibrates through the steering wheel at 55-65 mph then 90% of the time it's related to the wheels and/or tires. If the brakes and front end are perfect, then it has to related to the wheels and tires. One final check you can do to eliminate the engine and transmission is to slip the transmission into neutral when the van is vibrating at its worst. It the vibration stays then it again points to the wheels and/or tires.

mark reyes

Tire could be off balance, or not have the right air pressure, or you could have a defective tire such a lump, uneven ware or tred separation. if this doesn't help, take your tire off and try to turn the rotor if it doesn't turn smoothly it could be a stuck rear caliber.

alice knapp

we are looking at a car and they said it shakes really bad.. was just wondering if we should buy the car

Brian England

Hi Alice, Not a good idea unless you know what's causing the shake. Brian

Expertly covered the problems in your article and I get the great solutions which truly helpful to solve the car vibration problems perfectly. When moving the tire in and out, the bearing-in the case of a rear wheel drive or the hub bearing in the case of a front wheel drive which is bad and needs to be replaced. Thanks for sharing this informational post.

cristopher

my 03 Sedona is shaking when I put in drive or reverse.i change the coil and the park plus and the wires and still doing the same thing. any idea.

Brian England

Christopher the first step is to carefully document your problem, download the drivability diagnostic form at www.britishamericanauto.com and answer the questions then send it to me and I will see if I can help or steer you in the right direction.

ricardo

My 07 hhr shakes at any speed. But when I apply the brakes it stops. I've gotten an alignment, new front rotors. New brake pads and new caliper. Please help.

Brian England

Hi Ricardo, What part of the car vibrates, steering wheel, floor, front or rear of car, is it worse or better on turns? If the vibration is from the front of the car I would start with a very carefully examination of the tires, wheels and for play in the wheel bearings and other front end components This should of been done before doing an alignment but I want to make sure none of the basics have been missed.

pao lao

I have a 07 dodge nitro...just notice this morning when i was driving to work and when i come up to a complete stop my car would shake..not the steering wheel, the shaking is coming from the front and right side of the car..any suggestions??

Brian England

It could be the engine running roughly, what part of the car shakes ? Floor? Dash?

Rose

I have a 2002 Taurus and it shakes when I'm driving the steering wheel shakes as well especially when I'm going 50mph and I begin to apply the brakes

Prashant

Rose, did you get to know what was wrong with the car. I have the same make & model and facing the same problem. Spend mechanic $700. He changed the shock absorbers. But, it didn't get fixed. Your experience can help me figure out the problem hopefully.
Regards
Prashant

Brian England

Hi Rose most times these sort of shakes are related to wrapped brake rotors and or worn steering components. A complete brake and steering check would be the first place to start. Fill out one of the diagnostic forms this will help the technician get to the bottom of your issue.

Nishad Sameera Kaluarachchi

I have a AE110 SE Saloon Corolla 1997 model car and it has steering wheel vibration after the car is started and before driving......Please clarify me the reason for this and nature of repairs are required....

Brian England

I would have the garage you use check things like engine mounts. Is the engine idling smoothly? A rough running engine can cause the interior of the car to shake. Show the garage the issue and they should describe to you how they will go about getting to the bottom of the problem.

key

Hi! I have a 2000 Toyota camry. I shakes when I'm driving & gets a little worse when driving over 50 miles so it leaves me to drive at a speed of 40miles. It seems like the shaking is coming from the back of my vehicle but I'm not sure. Can anyone help me? Thus is also my first vehicle as well so I'm not mechanic savy at all.

Brian England

Hi Key, There are a number of steps to take, start by carefully documenting the problem, you can use the NVH form under Diaognostic Forms on our home page. Next take this to the service center you use. I suggest an ASA shop that performs all mechanical services and repairs. They will start by checking the basics (tires and rims). The vibration you describe could also be caused by a brake that is locked on. Drive your car for 2-3 miles then feel all the wheels, if one feels hotter than the rest that could signal the problem brake.

Brian England

Here is the link to how to find a ASA automotive service and repair shop. http://www.asashop.org/

Rachel Crockett

My 2006 Chevy trailblazer shakes a little when driving and the steering wheel I had 3 bad tires changed and not the 4th tire and it makes a wobbling noise when I slow down coming to a stop but it's not actually wobbling,humm and I just can't figure what that could mean, please help figure this one out.

jerome

Ihave a 2008 Chrysler 300 i change my brakes front and back had wheel alighnment tires rotated and high speed still feel shake when i brake what could be the problem going south would it be ok.

Brian England

Hi Jerome, If all the steering and suspension components are in good shape (they should be because part of an alignment is to make sure they are 100% before aligning) then I suspect an out of round rotor. Do you feel the shake through your foot, steering wheel, seat or the whole car?

Shantera

Hi im gonna give this a try, I have a shaking in the front end of my car it starts at 40-45 and 60-75 i have looked at tires ball joints everything you listed also vacuum lines and map sensor and a few others. (changed my vacuum lines and it helped for a little bit) It stops when I take my foot of the gas or push more on gas, in cruise it still does it but really only when it has to accelerate, I cant really explain it all threw text but maybe this might help ?

Bob Dixon

I have a 2000 Buick Century that shakes in the front end, primarily the right front. It shakes when I reached speeds of 30-35 mph and then eases up when I reach higher speeds. It only shakes when I an pressing down the gas pedal and stops when I let off the gas. I have bought tires, had front end aligned, new right front axle, new rack and pinion steering. I am confused now on what to do. Help?

Brian England

I would check the brake caliper, drive the car for at least 5 miles braking as little as possible, check temperature of each wheel if one hotter than the other then that is the side that is hanging up. Get back to me if this does not work. Brian

elizabeth Williams

I have put on new tires got alignment and balance but front end s still shakes. When driving feels like thumping sound. Was told i I needed Wheel bearings and replace cv axles. Was told maybe this would fix the problem. For 1700 I need more than maybe

sue smith

I have 2001 dodge stratus, I have replace motor mounts, struts, plugs, wires, crank and cam senors, left drive axle and cat cleaner.
I still have shaking in steering wheel and dash only shakes in park, neutral, and in drive sitting still.
what am I missing

Brian England

Hi Sue, Some how the engine vibrations are not being insulated from the body. The way to check this is with the car in drive and feel the various componants. This should be performed by a skilled technician. The other thing is the quality of parts, all engine mounts are not created equal! A recent example of the was when we installed aftermarket mounts on a 04 Buick and the vibration was worse! We installed orginal equipment mounts, they had be updated and has a rubber coating, no vibration, perfect.

Dave Poole

Brian,
I have a 97 shortbed Chevy C1500. I have a very bad shimmy (90 degree back and forth) when I go above 35MPH. I don't know if it stops at higher speeds because I am afraid to go faster. In the fall, I replaced rotors, pads and calipers to try to resolve. Seemed to help greatly, but now the shimmy is back.

tonika B

I have a 2007 for focus. today my car started shaking when I started going 50-60 mph on the freeway and it was not doing that previous to today. not sure what is wrong.

rhonda grandpre

Please help, anyone?? I have a 2002 buick lesabre and front tires shakes over 40 mph. Had new tires, and transmission mount. Someone suggest wheel bearings I thought bearings hummed if bad because mines not humming at all no clucking sounds or play in steering. What else can it be? Pls anyone has any other suggestions?

Randy Leak

Hi Rhonda,
Were you able to determine the vibrations in your Buick LeSabre? Mine is doing it also and (4) shops can't figure it out. Checked tires, brakes, motor mounts, alignment. Now they are talking transmission shudder. The whole car seems to vibrate at most speeds but it is VERY significant between 40 and 55 mph.

Brian England

Typically vibrations around 45 mph are driveline related. Brian

michael thompson

I have a lincoln continental when i put my car in reverse ot shakes whats wrong with my car

Amanda B

I have a 1996 ford Taurus and after braking hard to avoid an accident, my car feels like its wobbling and shaking rapidly right under the drivers side mainly. It will shake only when moving, when it idles it is fine. It will shake up until about 60mph. I had the tires rotated and balanced. The problem still remained. it seems to happen when braking hard or turning sharply left. any ideas on what it might be before i dump tons of money into this car?

Brian England

When you had the tires rotated and balanced did they inspect the steering and suspension?

Amanda b

Not to my knowledge. They only checked the tires. Do you think that could have caused it? I do know that my brakes are getting bad and need to be changed as well.

Brian England

I think it would be a good idea to take it to someone who will carefully evaluate the problem. Give the technician a written discription of the issue and ask how much it will cost to find the problem. About .5 to 1 hours labor would be the average time.

Bryan

While driving at about 35mph our car started shaking and quickly got worse over the next mile. It now shakes violently at any speed and at idle. What could be the problem?

Brian England

If the engine is shaking at idle it could be related to an engine misfire.

cindy spencer

Mine does the same thing whay is a misfire in the engine mean please explain

Brian England

An engine has a number power producing cylinders, when fails to produce power it's called a misfire, this is dramatic on a 4 cylinder causing the engine to shake.
Hope this helps. A prolonged misfire can cause damage to the catalytic converter.
Brian

Travis

I have a 2015 dodge charger. I have 26 inch rims on it with a lift kit. The car has been driving fine since October of last year now i have a shaking going on when i reach speeds between 40- 50 mph. Can you help me with this issue?

Brian England

Hi Travis, The speed of the vibration indicates a possible driveline issue. Have this checked first.Brian

Nick Tran

Brian,
2004 645ci bmw
Front end shakes over 50-70. Balance, rotation,
Got new tires and rims, still shakes but now seems worse 50-80. That's drive me crazy. Shakes is felt mostly on front floor, steering shakes but not that bad. I do feel vibration down in front foot area. Braking doesn't cause shaking. Brakes are good. Could it be defective new tires or rims? Oh once in awhile it drives a little better less shake. Please help.
Npinvestingllc@gmail.com.

Brian England

Hi Nick, Are you sure that the suspension and steering are in perfect condition? I strongly advice checking the basics first. Did this problem come on slowly or happen suddenly? Brian

Mandy

I'm driving an '87 Chrysler LeBaron with 28K that used to belong to my mother. I put 6K on it so far and changed the tires when I first received it. She did very little driving but kept up with the maintenance schedule (oil changes, belts changed, tires rotated, brakes inspected, etc.) and kept the car garaged. It looks showroom new and used to drive like a dream but lately the front passenger side started to shake. This is more pronounced at slower speed and disappears at highway speeds. No shaking of the steering wheel is occurring. My mechanic said the front shocks and plates needed to be replace and an alignment needed to be done. While balancing the tires he found the rim on the passenger side (right front) was bent. After replacing all that the shaking is still happening. Any ideas? The mechanic seems to be at a loss over why this is still happening. Would a bad tire with less than 7K miles on it be causing this to happen? My mother drove the car in a rural (nice roads) area and I am now driving in a pothole infested city. Any damage done was most likely caused by me under the new conditions. Any advice or suggestion will be greatly appreciated as I am becoming wary of driving this car.

Brian England

Hi Mandy, I suggest you drive the car for five miles then feel each front wheel if one side is hotter than the other take it a shop and ask them to carefully examine the brake calipers. A brake caliper hanging on can cause this problem, be careful when you feel the wheel because it can become very hot. Let me know how you get on. Brian

Daniel Udrija

Hey Brian, can you help me out? My 2012 Chevy Suburban is having vibration issues in the front end of the vehicle. It doesn't start until I have been driving for at least 30 minutes and it is usually over 80 degrees outside. The vibration is almost consistent with a flat tire and the faster you go I.E. 70-75mph the worse it gets. Also when you start to brake the brakes start pulsing and you can feel it in the brake pedal. This has happened 3 times but like I said when driving for over 30 minutes and its over 80 degrees outside. Also I notice when making turns after this happens it feels like the veh starts to slow it self down quickly without pushing down on the brakes. Ive taken it in twice to the dealership but they always tell me they cant find anything because its not currently happening. Veh is still under warranty

Brian England

Hi Daniel, Sounds like a brake caliper sticking on. When this happens check to see if one wheel is hotter than the rest or if there is a burning smell from one wheel. Let me know how you get on. Brian

Daniel Udrija

Well, after driving for about 30 minutes in city/suburb traffic and it being about 88 degrees outside, both front wheels were extremely hot to the touch and rear wheels were hot but able to keep hands on the rim.

Brian England

Try this, first thing in the morning, start car, push hard on brakes while standing still, drive round the block using brakes as little as possible, then feel each wheel. Each wheel should be the same temperature.

Jake

I am experiencing the same thing as what Daniel explained above.
I got a tune up, changed a spark plug and got new tires with an alignment and the problem isn't as intense as it once was, however the car still shakes after 30 minutes of driving or driving past 50mph.
So if the wheel is hot then you have a brake caliper problem ?
Also, I feel like my car consumes way to much gas. I drive a 2001 Nissan Maxima 6 cylinder.

Brian England

Yes if one wheel is hotter than the rest a brake calipers is "hanging up' , not releasing.

tanya atkins

I have an 2006 Pontiac g6 base model and when driving my car shakes very badly once I reach 60 mph. It begin to shake a little once I get to 50 mph. I will be purchasing new tires for my car very soon and it may fix the problem, but I'm not sure. If not, what else what I may do to fix this problem?

Brian England

You are on the right track, good quality tires will almost certainly fix the problem. Also ask the installer to check the rims for being true. Brian

Tanya Atkins

Ok, thank you Mr. Brian!!!

CJ

I've been having similar problems with my 2014 Subaru Impreza. After buying the car new, about six months later I noticed a vibration at highway speeds (70+). So I took it to the dealer, they said the tires were out of balance, balanced them, and no improvement. Since then, I've taken it to two dealerships and several tire shops and had it looked and and rebalanced with little improvement. I'm also running a good set of summer and winter tires, so that rules that out. However, the last time I took it in, they told me one of my rims was bent, and another was slightly bent so they would put those two on the rear to mask the vibration. And although it didn't go away it was bearable. Then I had to replace my summer tires and, after getting the best they had and rebalancing, rotating the rims and keeping them on the rear, the vibration is inexplicably worse than ever, and I can't figure it out. I'm wary of spending hundreds on two new stock rims when this may not indeed fix the problem. If the rear rims are slightly to moderately bent, could this still cause violent vibration in the steering wheel and front seats?

Mandy Fox

It's not your tires or your rims. I was told the same thing with my car and I just wasted time and money on a new rim and having my tires balanced. It didn't do a thing to stop the shaking. I really think mechanics tell you this when they have no idea what is causing the problem.

Alfian Halin

Hi :)
My car has slight vibration when the RPM reaches 3k. Vibration is firstly felt at the floor and also some slight vibration felt through the pedals. Then, depending on the speed I guess, the vibration can be felt in the seats as well as other parts of the car. It only occurs when the RPM is around 3.1 until 3.6k?
Although its minor, but my car, which is a 1.6 (Manual transmission) Proton Iriz... cruises at 105-115 km/h at this RPM when at top gear (gear 5). The mechanics at the service center have no idea why this is happenning. I personally think it might be a bit tyre related... but I think its the mountings that are problematic? Would appreciate any thoughts. Thank you! :D

LAURIE NELSON

i drive my suv buick rendezvous.. when i am driving i feel like stalling and little shaking.. also hear like rattle that comes loose.. i just got new tires and new brakes.. what causes it?/ need fuel injection?? will it help??

Felice Campano

my 04 maxima shakes at 50-60 then stops. i got new tires put on and my rims are still good. Brakes changed, rotation, alignment and balance, but still shakes. any thoughts?

Brian England

As long as you are sure the tires and wheels are perfect (good quality tires) then it could be related to the hub rotor assembly could be out of balance. Do you feel the vibration through the car or through your hands?

Felice Campano

It vibrates the steering wheel and throughout the car. Mainly the pass anger side.

Ryan Mikulas

My dashboard shakes some when i press the gas pedal but when i let go of it then it seems to stop pretty much and also my back end of the car vibrates when i drove down the road like riding rough in way and gets on my nerves. I took it to 2 Different shops and both told me my tires are good my shocks and struts are good as well but can't seem to figure out what is going on and plus my steering wheel feels a little tight any ideas thanks

Kim Conti

Hi Brian-
First, great website- you are very helpful! I have a 2001 Buick Lesabre that started shaking a few weeks ago but it was just a little, not too annoying. Now, however, it shakes so violently once I get up to about 50-60 mph that it's terrifying! It also pulls to the right very strongly so I know my alignment is off but it was my understanding that that would not cause shaking, just pulling. There are no problems when idling, and no noise. The shaking is felt strongly in the steering wheel but also in the drivers seat and causes anything sitting in my car to start shaking and falling so I feel like the shaking is fairly uniform throughout the whole car.
I have one brand new tire, 2 gently used ones that were replaced about a month ago, and another tire that appears to be in good shape (all to the naked eye of course).
Do you have any suggestions or ideas as to what it could be? I simply can't afford to get a ton of work done on my car so I'm trying to target the problem as quickly and precisely as possible, though I'm aware this is wishful thinking on my part and probably not likely to happen like I would hope it would.
Any advice is very greatly appreciated!
Thank you so much,
Kim C.

Brian England

Hi Kim, The most common cause of the problem you describe is a brake caliper locking up. Start car, push very hard on brake pedal, drive 3-4 miles, park and turn off engine, check to feel if one wheel is hotter than the rest. Do this first. Let me know how you get on. Brian

majid alam

i have toyota feilder 2001 my car steering starts shaking at about 80km/hr and increase shaking when i give more speed

John Garcia

My vehicle shake at 60mph i lifted up the front to see if it was maybe the balance but at 60mph it still does it can it be the mounts?

Brian England

The first thing to do is gather information by using a form from here http://www.britishamericanauto.com/car-repair-education-and-info-blog/bid/43251/Using-Auto-Diagnostic-Check-Sheets-to-Speed-Your-Auto-Repair
It seems unlikely that mounts are the issue. Wheel balance, tires, sticking brake calipers are the common issues.

Matt Groble

My car is recently having a shaking problem as well. The wheel shakes at low speeds and high speeds and the alignment is very poor. When I take my hands off the wheel it veers to the right at a 10-15 degree angle

Randy Leak

Still can't find my shaking problem on my Buick LaSabre... shakes bad around 40 mph but seems to quit around 50. the car shakes, not the steering wheel or the brake pedal. I had the tires and alignment checked, replaced a motor mount and tie rods. My mechanic thinks it's the transmission. I took it to a transmission shop and they think it's the front axles. I have had occasion to drive with a leaf rake in the car and although you don't feel the vibration much other then around 40 mph the rake certainly vibrates at other speeds.

Brian England

The speed that the car vibrates is inline with a driveline vibration, does it go away of lessen when you let off on the gas?

Randy Leak

Generally it will lesson if I let of the gas but not always right away.

robert busbee

My 2006 lincoln TC Has a moderate vibration starting at approx. 70 mph and goes away at 80mph.
Any ideas?

Marcus

I have a 2004 Chrysler 300m Special, I just got a new tire on my right front passenger side, now when I'm braking the car shakes and it feels like the right front tire is about to fall off. What is the problem

Hi Brian...
I have a 1995 Firebird 3.4L. It has under 100 grand miles on it and has never been in any accident. A few months ago I started getting a steering wheel wobble/shake. I went to the mechanic and he claimed that the intermediate steering shaft had to be replaced and I pointed out that the upper bolt where that shaft connects to shaft coming out of steering column was missing and asked if that had any relevance. Told me to change steering shaft, then get any alignment. I did so and while having an alignment they put all my rims on the Roth machine and told me rims are true, no bad tires and then high speed balanced them. Did not solve the shake in the steering wheel. I then had a place check my entire suspension front and rear and was told that only thing wrong was that the rear torsion bar needed a new bushing. I had that replaced and the next week I had all tranny and engine mounts checked and even tho they told me nothing wrong with my 3 piece drive shaft, I had it removed and completely balanced. I still have a skake/wobble in the steering wheel. It starts on the highway between 45-65 MPH and subsides much when going faster than 75MPH. I have lifted the car and spun the front wheels looking for possible warped rotors and/or any clicking/bearing noises as well as grabbing wheels and checking for any play. I have owned the car for a few years and the issue came in suddenly w/out previous symptoms. So far I have spent almost 1000. in diagnostic fees and a few small parts (intermediate shaft, etc). I live too far away to bring you this car for inspection. At this point I am almost ready to junk this good running and very good looking car as it seems it is hard to get someone willing to take the time and expert enough to not guess and find what is wrong. Caliphers and rotors are approx 4 months old as well as pads. What may be your opinion?

Brian England

Has anyone remove the driveshaft and check for seized or worn universal joints?

Debbie Pekel

Brian,
I have a 2008 Saturn Astra XR and I have some shaking only through the steering wheel when I reach speeds of 70+. The shaking will fluctuate throughout the high speeds. Sometimes the shaking stops for while and then comes back. What do you think it could be?

miguel rodriguez

I have a 2000 suburban, when I start reaching 55-60 mph it starts shaking, but not a shake that you can't control, it's like a shake that a blender makes but as you increase your speed it's starts to disappear but once you start reaching 70 and above its startsh shaking again and it's not uncontralable but it is loud! I NEED HELP PLEASE!

Brian England

It sounds like a tire problem, start from there if they are perfectly round, in good condition and balanced move on to having the steering and suspension checked for worn parts.

miguel rodriguez

I did, I bought new tires balanced them and even did a wheel alignment but nothing it still does it it mostly feel in the back but I feel it everywhere too lol I don't know how to explain

Brian England

Ok, next step make sure none of the brakes are hanging on. After driving 4-5 miles feel each wheel is there one hotter than the rest. If this test passes then check the drive train, remove drive shaft and check for a worn or seized universal joint. All the best.

Randy Leak

What systems are included when you refer to a vibration being driveline related?

Brian England

Mainly the drive shaft.

Ray Alarcon

Hello, I drive an 05 Mazda 6i manual. Today I warmed my car up 20 minutes prior to driving it as I always do. Once I got on the road and was speeding up everything seemed normal, then once I got into higher speeds my entire car started to vibrate. Not just the steering wheel or my seat or the brakes. Not a simple shake either, not overall dangerous but it's definitely there. (I drove it home friday afternoon during the big snow storm of the east, but i got home no problem and it has been sitting in my driveway since then and this problem showed up with no previous sign of it.) I drove it roughly 4 miles to see if it would stop but it continued. What gets me is that it doesn't continually vibrate when I'm in high speeds, it will stop for a bit then pick right back up. I imagined that it would be the tires/rims but it doesn't make sense that it would stop for a bit and then pick back up. I also got up to about 55, shifted into neutral and let it coast but it continued to shake. Any thoughts or a way to start tackling this problem would be of major help. Thanks.

Brian England

Hi Ray, It sounds like it might be one of the brakes locked on, next time it happens check for one wheel being hotter than the rest. Brian

Arvind

Even the same case with our car. the same way I surfed in the internet an found the solution. Some Ice cubs were left in the tire center part which I have cleaned thouroughly. Now it is not shaking. It may or may not work for you but better give a try.

Ergen Noturbuisnes

Hello , i have a 2003 touareg 3.2 , my car shakes at 60 km/h , i have send it at technician but no one can find the problem

Brian England

Hi Ergen, Vibrations at this speed are normally related to the driveline. Brian

Kami Smith

I have an 06 Murcery Montery, we just bought it then I noticed on the drive home it shakes with a muted rattle in the front right side at around 40 to 55 mph even coasting. We put new tires on (balanced of course) the other day, the breaks look good and it's still there. Any ideas on what to try next?

Brian England

Hi Kami, Did the service facility check for worn steering or suspension parts also drive car for 5 miles and then gently feel the wheels if the RH is warmer than the LH front you have a sticky brake caliper. Start with these basics and let me know how it goes. Brian

Brian England

Hi Tyler, Start with the basics, have the tires and rims checked, check the condition of all the steering and suspension parts if all of this is perfect look for the brakes hanging on. Road test car for five miles, feel both front wheels they should both be the same temperature, if not the hot wheel is caused by the brakes sticking. Brian

mark veenstra

Hi this is mark I have a 2002 Pontiac grand prix gt and the rear end shakes what could it be.I thought it was the wheel bought a new one and that did not work want could it be.

Brian England

Hi Mark, There are so many things that could cause this, start my checking the tires and rims very carefully, then look at the brakes they could be hanging on. Brian

Ashley Borden

Hey Brian,
My car just recently started shaking, it wobbles at any speed the steering wheel wobbles with it. It pulls to the right slowly but gradually. The struts are bad and im getting hem replaced the brakes don't grind don't squeak nothing, I feel like every time I drive it the pulling gets worse. Is this tire wear and tear or something more serious.

Brian England

Hi Ashley, Start with making sure there are no other worn steering and suspension parts, if they are good look at brakes and see if they are wearing unevenly. I sticking brake caliper can cause the symptoms you are experiencing. Also if you drive 5 miles the feel the wheels
one will feel hotter. Bran

Brian England

Hi John, The speed range of the vibration is consistent with a driveline issue. What is the year make and model of your vehicle? Brian

Brian England

John here is a handy form to fill out and take with you to the repair facility you use.
http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/33377/file-290736017-pdf/docs/noise,_vibration_and_harshness_diagnostic_sheet.pdf?t=1457532932368

Daniel

My car starts shaking violently on the freeway, and the steering wheel is jostling left to right. Then pressing the brake will really make it shake. If I slow down to about 55 it stops. But its intermittent, it only happens after driving for about 30 minutes and it will progressively get worse as you drive. After arriving at my destination and leaving 2-3 hours, the problem is gone for a while, then it comes back a few days later. It won't do it for the mechanic =(

Brian England

Hi Daniel, It sounds like you have a brake hanging on, after driving 15 minutes check and see if one wheel is getting hotter than the rest. Brian

Daniel

THANK YOU! I got off the freeway and checked as you suggested - the right rim itself was hot to touch. I jacked up the front of the car, and rotated the wheels by hand. The right side dragged. Removed the wheel, and the caliper. I stuck a 2x2 in the caliper and pressed the brake. Nothing! No movement whatsoever! I used a c-clamp and my wifey on the brake to work it back and forth until it popped out. Rusted solid! 20 minute wire/polish and 30 minutes reassembly, and the problem is fixed. You the man!

Brian England

Thank you for the feed back.

HEATHER

I have a 2009 Chevy Cobalt. Just got new motor mounts put on due to being loose and car was shaking bad. Picked up vehicle the noise and most of the shaking went away. So took the car in to get tires rotated and balanced and an alignment cause steering wheel was shaking at 55 - 65 mph. Picked it up and took it for a drive and the steering wheel started shaking again at the same speeds as mentioned above. What else can it be?

Brian England

Hi Heather, I would take it back, don't ask for a wheel balance ask them to resolve the issue you have. It sounds like a balance issue but it should be the shop that diagnoses the problem. In general the best approach is to always talk about symptoms no mater what the car issue. Brian

Pangie Weda

I bought my grandson a 1991 Honda, Accord LX
I shimmers (shack) a little when your at a stop. Just the steering wheel

joe cip

i have a 2004 subaru forester and i took it to the mechanic that is my lanlord/friends cousin so i dont think he would lie or steer me in the wrong direction, but the issue is, 1. when im at a stop sign and red light or any complete stop then go to hit the gas right when i start to go the steering wheel shakes for like 2 seconds then stops and drives normal, and on the highway anywhere from 60mph to 70mph the steering wheel vibrates a little not significantly just enough from the person driving to feel it, the mechanic passed the inspection and said I need an allignment but i read all these posts and read about the steering wheel balancing and tire balancing, do you guys think i need just an allignment as the mechanic said or do I need all 3, allignment, steering wheel and tire balancing? i deff know it needs allignment because when i let go of the wheel it pulls to the right significantly, i am taking it to get an allighnment tomottow so i would greatly appreciate if someone can give me some advice before hand on what to get done and what is neccisarry and not, the less money spent the better but I wanna make sure I do enough preventitive maintance to extend the longevity of the car. thanks, also its a 2004 subaru forester 1ith around 187k miles on it... recently changed battery and spark plugs and spark plaug wires myself, also he told me my check engine light came on for some reason associated with the cadilatic converter he said it didnt matter not a big deal but if anyone knows what that might mean that would be great to learn about as well

Brian England

Hi Joe, I think a very careful pre alignment check should be performed. Some of the symptoms point towards wheel or wheel balance issues but others towards a drivetrain issue (mounts/axle shaft) or brakes hanging on. So much going on, an investment in a careful examination is priority number one. Go to a shop that employees skilled certified technicians (not a tire franchise). Brian

Sherri Bowens

I have a 2009 Mitsubishi gallant. There was bad shaking in the front passangers side when I would brake. Was told it was the rotor. I changed the rotor and brakes. Now it sounds like something is rattling or moving. The vibration goes away when I apply the brakes..total opposite. Do you think its my caliper?

Sherri Bowens

I have a 2009 Mitsubishi gallant. There was bad shaking in the front passangers side when I would brake. Was told it was the rotor. I changed the rotor and brakes. Now it sounds like something is rattling or moving. The vibration goes away when I apply the brakes..total opposite. Do you think its my caliper? I can also feel the vibration in my brake pedal

Brian England

Hi Sherrie a carefully examination of the calipers is part of a quality brake repair. Double check that everything is installed correctly. There are various caliper clips, pins and other parts that must be in place. Brian

Daniel

I've had those problems before, usually because of the sheet metal springs that hold the pads in. Sometimes they can rub the rotor and need to be repositioned or bent a little. Other times they are simply loose. When I do brakes, I coat those brackets with a dow cornering product, smearing it on with my fingers. I use the same product to grease the back of the brake pads, before setting the shims on them. I then grease the outside of the shims as well. This keeps everything nice and quiet. As an added bonus, it acts as sort of a mild assembly glue. The same grease is used to lube the slider pins. Its a great product to keep in stock. As Brian said, check the assembly.

Sherri Bowens

Awesome. I had someone check to make sure everything was installed properly and found that a clip that holds my brakes in place had broken. Replaced it and it worked.... It was a 10$ part.. Yay!!!! Thank you for the advice....

Brian England

Great! Glad things worked out.

Xavier Juarez

I have a 2007 Dodge Caliber and about a month ago my car started shaking pretty bad and ofcourse it's gotten worse over time. My car shakes only when I brake. It also does t matter how fast I'm going if I start pushing on the brake my steering wheel shakes badly and then my whole car shakes.

Rudy Jacobo

Hi I have an 05 dodge magnum. My question is I have a vibration when driving over 70 mph and on the fas. Not when coasting.

Michael Gantt

I have a 1999 Chevy Silverado with 6 inch suspension lift. Im currently running 35s but when i got the truck it shakes like idk what. Starts out about 30 mph and the faster you go the more it shakes. Idk where to start, was told tires could be problem, tie rods, ball joints, sway bar bushings and idk what to believe can someone plz help me. Man i got it from said front end has been rebuilt.

Brian England

Vibrations that start at around 30 mph are commonly caused by driveshaft wear or brakes hanging on. Remove driveshaft to check. For the brakes drive five miles then carefull feel each wheel of one is hotter than the rest.. Brian

Ozzy Waraich

Hi Brian, I have a very strange issue with my Honda Civic Coupe 1998 EJ6. I started noticing heavy vibrations on the steering wheel when braking from 40 to 30 mph. I thought the discs were warped but I have changed both the discs and pads twice on my car (replaced with new ones). I had serviced the calipers as well twice and the piston, rubber seals seem to be fine, the brake oil is also at the correct level and doesnt seem to leak, but the vibrations persist. The steering wheel never vibrates at high speeds or whilst accelerating. Wondering if you could advise what could be the issue?

Brian England

Hi Ozzy, I would start by checking very carefully the suspension and steering components. Worn ball joints are and steering pats wear and are easily missed. Brian

Lakshay

I have a 2012 Toyota RAV4 with 75K miles. We got all brand new Michelin tires last year since last two months, car shakes on highway speed above 60 and shakes more at around 75-80 miles an hour.
Tires have been balanced twice. Wheel alignment also done. Got brakes 6-8 months ago. I'm a Volkswagen tech so I have automotive background but this problem I can't solve. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Brian England

First I would make sure that all the rims are true. Next check that all the wheels turn freely and are not dragging (caliper issue)

Hi Brian, I have Renault Clio and a vibration starts when driving between 35-45 km/h . Before and after that speed the vibration decreases. What could be the issue?

Brian England

Problems at this speed range are normally related to drivetrain issues.

nykole morgan

Hi my car is a '14 Nissan sentra hybrid its only happened twice but I've stepped on my brakes at over 50 mph and my steering wheel went crazy shaking so hard I thought I was about to loose a tire since its only happened once before today I never brought it in but having do it again today has me freaked out to drive it what could cause it to do this on two separate occasions with about two weeks in between them also I've driven this speed and braked since the first time and nothing g similar till today

Brian England

Sounds like an out of round brake rotor or there is a rust spot on the brake rotor. Brian

Sheila Hunt

M mom has a 2000 Subaru Outback. When you apply to brakes to a full stop I can feel a bad vibration in the brake and it gets loud. Had new brakes, new tires and an alignment. Any suggestions of what can be going on? Thanks

Brian England

Hi Sheila, New brakes should not perform like this, take the car back and have them check it out. There are many parts to a braking system, what parts are new? Brian

Michael Easter

I have a 2006 hyundai tucson limited 2.7L and whenever i brake its very wobbly and also the steering wheel shakes alot and whenever im over like 45-50 mph the ride is very shaky as well. Just got the tires balanced as well. The brakes and rotors were all replaced back in jan or feb of 2016 so i would think those couldn't be the culprit either? I think i need to replace my right side cv drive shaft but even after that i dont think it will fix the problem, if someone could throw me some advice that would be great. Thanks.

Brian England

The issues you are experiencing should be checked by a skilled technician, This will avoid unnecessary repairs.
Brian

Stacy

2004 VW Jetta manual trans; shakes when decelerating from 60 mph, especially if car is in neutral and I'm braking. Slows down or stops when downshifting instead. Brakes are excellent, just had tires put on, balanced and aligned. Shaking is in the front under the hood, and it vibrates the steering wheel. Periodic issues finding 1st/3rd gear sometimes. Could it be the trans or trans fluid? I don't know what to check first.

Brian England

Hi Stacy, I would have the suspension links and bushings checked and also the brake rotor "run out". Have the brake calipers carefully checked too. So in general check all the basics and make sure all the suspension steering and brakes are in perfect condition before looking for the complicated. Let me know how you get on.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving. Brian

Fred D

I have a 2006 Kia spectra ex. So last week my friend changed one of the transmission mount of my car coz it was shaking while I was driving 55-60 mph and sometimes it will shake when I am driving 30-40 mph but more when I am 55-60mph. It's very weird coz it will happen lil bit here n there then will stop n then it would do it again. Any suggestions or solutions please. My friend thinks it's the other transmission mount. Please help. Thanks a lot

Fred D

I have a 2006 Kia spectra ex. So last week my friend changed one of the transmission mount of my car coz it was shaking while I was driving 55-60 mph and sometimes it will shake when I am driving 30-40 mph but more when I am 55-60mph. It's very weird coz it will happen lil bit here n there then will stop n then it would do it again. Any suggestions or solutions please. My friend thinks it's the other transmission mount. Please help. Thanks a lot

Brian England

Hi Fred, Start with making sure the steering and suspension are in perfect condition, then check the brakes for issues related to the calipers sticking. When you have the issue check for one wheel being hotter then the rest, i e caliper sticking on. Let me know how you get on. Brian

Fred D

Hi Brian! So yes the steering and suspension are in good condition. Also the wheels are all same. They are not hot then one another. Do you think like my friend was saying that it's a front transmission mount that need to be changed? Thanks a lot

Brian England

Hi Fred, Try this, when you get the vibration put transmission in N if it goes away it's drivetrain related, Brian

Fred D

Brian thanks. Just so you know it only happens the shaking while it's in drive. Not in any other gears. It's a automatic transmission. And I did try putting it in neutral, reverse, 3rd, 2nd n first. It only shakes while it's in drive. Thanks a lot. Let me know what you think. Cheers

Brian England

Hi Fred, It seems like we are zeroing in on a driveline issue rather than a mount. What components have been checked other than the mounts? Brian

lou f

in the 1970's I had an AMC Hornet with (rare) radial tires.
I kept getting vibrations and sometimes it would quit and sometimes it would be worse. It turns out that after a great run around by my GOODYEAR dealer, it was found that I had 2 (alternate located) out of round tires.

Brian England

Thank you for your input, yes out of round tires and bent rims are a common cause of vibrations. Easy thing to have checked first. Brian

Fred D

Hey Brian! So the rest of the car we have checked. Everything sounds good with the rest of it. Except the other 2 transmission mounts are bad. The rubber seems to be pretty bad of them. So basically my Kia apparently has 4 trans mount. I have changed 2 so far. Do you think the other ones which are bad should be replaced too? Thanks a lot. Appreciate all your help so far. Happy holidays:)

oscar house

hi i have an 08' subaru impreza and when i hit about 45mph the car and the steering wheel starts shaking, as i accelerate the shaking gets faster and faster, i have reached about 70mph and it did not ease up, what do you thing is the problem?

Brian England

Hi Oscar, Start by checking ALL the tires, steering and suspension parts if they are ok drive car until it's shaking at its worst. Find a safe place to park, check all the wheels to see iif one is hotter than the rest. If so you have a brake caliper hanging on causing the vibration. Brian

oscar house

The shaking was minimized after properly inflating tires but there is still a slight shaking when at 70-90mph, one thing i have noticed are at very sharp turns towards both directions the car begins to shudder, what could this be?

Tyler Coho

I recently bought a 2010 used car its a Kia Soul and it starts to shake at about 55 miles per hour and it feels like most of the shaking is coming from my driver side tire. I don't know much about cars. This just started today.

Brian England

Hi Tyler, It sounds like a wheel balance issue, typically when a wheel/tire is out of balance a vibration starts around 55 mph comes to a peak then fades at higher speeds. I suggest you have the tires and wheels carefully checked and if in good condition balanced.
Brian

robert khoza

Good Day
I hit a very huge pothole and ever since my ford figo has not bee driving smoothly. If feels like its driving on rims without tires, the steering wheel vibrates and it sways me violently when turning on a bumpy road. I did the wheel balancing, alignment and even had the suspension checked but the ford workshop and many others I took the car to say its " Solid". I'm no mechanic but something is definitely wrong with my car and its driving me nuts.

Brian England

Hi Robert, Interesting! I don't understand how they can't find what is wrong? Did they do an alignment check? There has to be something bent! I think it's time to find another service facility. Brian

Raymond Ortiz

Okay so I replaced my transfer case with a used one and ever since then I get a vibration around 50 to 65 miles per hour and then it goes away after that or if I let off the gas. Any help would be greatly appreciated thanks

Brian England

Hi Raymond, This is very odd! Where do you feel the vibration, through the body? Steering? Brian

Suad

Hi
I have Nissan Murano 2009 and drives fine until I apply brakes,then back end of my car starts shaking and I can fill shaking on my staring will to
Can you help me please
Thank You

Nick

Hi Brian,
I'm having a strange vibration with my FWD camry. I get a mild to moderate vibration while driving at certain speeds, usually around 40 mph and again at 75 mph. The vibration feels like it's happening in the back right side of the car. I have rotated my tires and the vibration still feels like it's coming from the same spot. I recently had my car serviced and the brake wear is even left to right on both front and rear calipers.
Do you have any idea what I should check for next? Do you think it could be rear suspension components?
Thanks,
Nick

Brian England

Hi Nick. The speed 40 and 70 mph suggests a driveline issue! But because it's a FWD vehicle I am leaning towards a rear hub issue or a bent rim. Have these basics been checked? Brian

Hi Brian,
I have a 2013 Volvo S60 T5 FWD 2.5L Turbo and I did hit many potholes on the highway, but one was the worst of them all. The shaking starts at about 45-50 mph and it gets worst at higher speed, but I did get to 80mph one day and it went away. I feel the shake in the steering wheel and the floor on the driver side. I went and did the balance and they said I have a bent wheel, and suggested I take it to a guy that straightens bent alloy wheels. I took it to that guy and he showed me that is bend. One hour later he straightened it and showed me that is not bent anymore by putting the wheel on the balancing machine. Put the wheels back on and the shake is still the same. Also the tires in the rear are uneven and will replace them in a few days. What do you think? Is still the rim? Or is it the tire? Maybe caliper? I event thought it might be the CV Axle or some bearings, even though they look fine when visually checked. I appreciate your advice. Thank you. - Daniel

Brian England

Hi Daniel, If the issue started after hitting a pothole then it could be related to damaged suspension parts, bent hub etc....Start with a close examination of the front steering and suspension followed by an alignment check this should disclose what is causing the problem. Take to a facility that knows how to diagnose problems. Brian

Tanya Rogers

I have a 1999 Suburban and when I over 40mph it vibrates bad. I have had all for tires changed and rotated. I had all my brakes changed, and also had my driveshaft checked and they said it looked good. My alignment was done also... I don't know what to do next please help. Thank you!

Brian England

Hi Tanya, Where is the vibration coming from? steering? Through the floor? Front rear?
Brian

Tanya Rogers

Front rear

Brian England

Hi Tanya, If all the tires and rims are perfect, there are 'no' signs of a brake caliper hanging on (one wheel hotter than the other after driving 5 miles) then I would remove the driveshaft and check for a seized universal joints. Brian

John S

I just went through this myself.
My car shook severely, steering was fine, and very noisy at lower speeds.
I noticed it got very bad when there was rough roads a lower speeds.
So I jacked up the front end
It was a front shock/strut nut that came completely undone & shaft was rattling in the wheel well.
Was a bit beat up, but not really damaged, so decided to work with it
Took me a bit to put it back in (trial & error) but I was able to do it by myself.
Here's a detailed explanation on what I did (if anyone ever needs it):
-Jacked up the front end high
-From the wheel well, manually guided the rod back into the upper shock rod hole
-Make sure the shaft pattern side matches the frame hole pattern (my shock was not cylindrical, had a flat sided tip that aligned with the frame hole) The hole time you will need to keep that shaft alignment in mind.
-The drop the car
-If the shaft was aligned well, shaft thread should pop out enough to thread the nut back
In my case, thread was damaged so once I finally got the nut to start threading, the shaft would spin, messing the alignment up
I had to jack up the car & used a rag in between & clamped on the shaft from the wheel well with a vise grip wrench & that hit the frame, stopping the spinning. Then I could threat the nut in further
-Once you tighten the nut in a bit (not too much) you will have to use pliers to pull on the nut upwards, raising the shaft, allowing you to better see if the bottom end is aligning well.
If you cant raise the shaft out enough to see underneath the nut, drop the car a bit to allow shaft to go further into the frame.
Now you will continue to tighten, using a rag & vise grip to hold shaft in place. Once the nut hits the frame, remove the vise grips, lower car a bit, then clamp again, and tighten more.
Keep doing this until the nut is snug & the car is on the floor (or when you cannot use the vise grip on shaft any more because the coils have compressed too much, blocking access). And then you will have to tighten the nut with car on the floor. By then, the nut should be tight enough where the shaft should not spin any more (basically just finishing the job)

Jared House

I have a 99 Chevy Silverado my front and shakes at 55 miles an hour so I replaced the tires . After all the money spent on new tires the violent vibration came back one day after tires were put on.😢 when they replace the tire I asked him to check on my break because I noticed it will get very hot on one side and they said the brake line had A pinch or something so they opened it and bleed it. This was all at the same time I got new tires . So of course they let me pay for tires and they said they bled the break .but tonight with all new tires started shaking violently at 50 to where I had to pull over so after I pulled over and I come down I took off again but noticing if I took my hands off the wheel it would jerk violently to the left not a vibration just like someone was holding the wheel .and when I arrived home I could smell my brake caliper so I am at a loss now did my Breakline get pinched again on my break sticking or is there a problem with the rotor

Brian England

Hi Jared, I suggest you take your vehicle to a repair facility that knows how to check a braking system. Something is holding the brake on, a seized caliper, the caliper sticking slide, a blocked brake hose are the main causes for what you are experiencing. Brian

Jared House

I appreciate the info Brian. I had one more question if you could possibly shed some insight .I have a 2006 Cadillac CTS and I've noticed that when I go to slow down to make a stop say into a parking space and I am turning left as I am breaking and slowing down it feels like there's a miss in the break and it literally doesn't stop the car I have to pump them A couple times to get it to catch itself to stop but I've actually bumped things due to the brake pedal missing out and falling to the floor but it only seems like it happens when I'm pulling into spaces turning left

Brian England

Hi Jared, I suspect play in one of the front wheel bearings, when turning on full steering lock it tilts and pushes back the caliper piston! Serious issue! I suggest you get it checked ASAP. Brian

Jared House

I'm not sure what turning on full steering lock means but when this happens it only does it at very low rate of speed and it's few and far between when it does it but it does it

Brian England

Full lock is turning the steering has fas as it goes.. Drive the car in a tight circle in an empty parking lot and I expect it will happen. This is a dangerous situation, symptoms like this should be checked and resolved.

Ali Mujeeb

HI GUYS
I am having Corolla 2005 diesel converted to petrol 1.5.
when i hit acceleration and car reached 40 km/hr, car begin to start shivering but if i press clutch at same speed car gets calm. when i increase car speed to even 45 km/hr car gets calm and remains smooth till 90 and problem again starts and remains till 100.... then on 120 and so on... any advise?

Brian England

Hi Ali, It sounds like a driveline issue, shaft issue or installation /?alignment of the drive shafr. Brian

Jane Matthews

I have a 2017 Toyota Camry with less than 300 miles on it. Within a week a picking up the car, it developed a small vibration at lower speeds (35 mph). The vibration at the lower speeds is getting a little worse and it now has a vibration at the higher speeds (60 - 70 mph). I wouldn't have expected a problem like this with a brand new car. Do you have any idea what it could be?

Brian England

Hi Jane, Sometimes the dealers fail to remove the shipping devices that hold the suspension. Take it back ASAP! Brian

Evelyn Byrd

Please Help!..My car is shaking..The shaking seems to be in the steering wheel and center of my vehicle. It gets really bad at the 55 - 60 mph speeds. I try to do some research before I take my car to a mechanic. I'm new to the State of Florida and I am so worried to take my car anywhere before having an idea of what may be happening. Don't want to get ripped off!...Thank You..

Christina Henderson

I have a. 2000 mustang. It started with a weird rubbing sound in the driver side rear . so I changed the brakes to it new tires balanced and put on and sound just got worse I took it to Les Swab they checked it found nothing and now its worse rub sound and I can feel it through my gear stick even . Today a new very loud whistling noise appeared but only while I'm accelerating and now the whole car wobbles side to side ! I'm scared to drive it and being a single mom I can't afford to take it to a specilist.....PLEASE HELP!!!!

Brian England

Hi Christina, There are so many things that can cause what you are experiencing! The trouble with trying things rather than diagnosing it wastes time and money. I would lean towards it being a driveline issue or a brake caliper holding on. Brian

Juleen Powell

Hi Brian,
Can you help please?
I have a 2012 ford explorer, which is serviced regularly at the service recommended intervals.
One morning the check engine light appeared on the dash, I took the vehicle in to get it checked. I was told there was a oil leak, to repair it required replacing the value cover, sensors, spark plugs & air filters, these repairs were completed the same day.
About two weeks later I took the vehicle back as it appeared to me that the RPM gauge was higher than normal for the speed I was going, which was relatively slow as I was turning in to the school gate. The shop claimed they could not duplicate my concern as vehicle appeared fine when tested. After collecting from garage on way home I could feel a slight vibration in my seat, steering wheel and floor pedal, this was not happening before.
Took car back the next morning to be told car needed engine and transmission mounts, repairs for these were done with new parts got car back but car still has slight vibration it can be felt in my seat, more in the steering wheel and gas pedal.
Can you say what is causing this?

Hi Brian,
Can you help please?
I have a 2012 ford explorer, which is serviced regularly at the service recommended intervals.
One morning the check engine light appeared on the dash, I took the vehicle in to get it checked. I was told there was a oil leak, to repair it required replacing the value cover, sensors, spark plugs & air filters, these repairs were completed the same day.
About two weeks later I took the vehicle back as it appeared to me that the RPM gauge was higher than normal for the speed I was going, which was relatively slow as I was turning in to the school gate. The shop claimed they could not duplicate my concern as vehicle appeared fine when tested. After collecting from garage on way home I could feel a slight vibration in my seat, steering wheel and floor pedal, this was not happening before.
Took car back the next morning to be told car needed engine and transmission mounts, repairs for these were done with new parts got car back but car still has slight vibration it can be felt in my seat, more in the steering wheel and gas pedal. Can you say what is causing this?

Brian England

Hi Jules, If the vibration is the same but less it could be related to the brand of the mounts, I have come across aftermarket mounts that do not insulation the engine bvibrations as good as original equipment. I would not worry too much if this is the case, but I would take it back and let them double check their work. Brian

Hi Brian,
Thank you!
I am not sure what aftermarket means, does that mean it does not matter that the mounts were purchased from the ford dealer parts store? As I have always only taken the vehicle to their garage and used ford manufactured parts.

Brian England

Hi Jules, If they are Ford parts that's good, I would take it back, they said it was the mounts but you still have a problem! Brian

This is a great article with some great tips - but unfortunately my wheel is still shaking. I really don't know what's wrong with it and I don't want to make it worse trying to fumble around with it! I was actually reading an article recently that said the shaking could be caused by wheel alignment ( this is the article so people know what I'm talking about)​ . Is there a way I could fix it easily/cheaply if it was a problem like this? Or am I better just taking it to a mechanic and getting it fixed? I'm short of money at the minute so I don't want to unnecessarily spend money on having someone look at it if it's not a problem - but at the same time I don't want to leave it and find out in a few months that it's totally destroyed my car.

Brian England

Hi Isabel, I worry that short cutting a logical diagnosis process will end up with guesses and costing you more!
Brian

Jay R

Hi Brian. I bought a 2007 E 350 XLT van, for personal use. It started shaking bad at 60 to 65 mph speed. I had the tires balanced and rotated. I was told that one of the tire should be changed soon, as it might not make the vibration go completely away. So the bad tire was rotated to be put on the front. Now, it doesn't vibrate on 60 to 65 mph, but vibrates at 70-80 mph. It is like a whole body shake, maybe worst in the middle or back. I didn't change that tire, as I wanted to change all four at the same time, and the budget didn't allow it at that time. Now, it still vibrates, but at a different speed, so you think it still is the tire, and should I go ahead, and change all four?

Brian England

Hi Jay, I think it would be a good idea to replace the tires with 4 good quality tires. The rims should be carefully inspected too. While the wheels are off ask that the brakes are carefully check for signs of the calipers sticking. Brian

Patricia LeClaire

Hi Brian,
I have a 2001 Subaru Legacy GT (yes ... the car and I are aging gracefully together). It's always been well-maintained and in April 2017 I had a thorough brake and systems inspection done at a AAA-certified garage. Three new tires were installed (the 4th was only 6 months old) and the rear brakes inspected. They suggested follow-up service at 151300 miles: lube, oil & filter exchange and re-check of the rear brakes.
While my car hasn't yet reached that mileage, an emergency 1500-mile relocation out-of-state involved driving interstates at 70 mph in 90 degree temps but the car performed flawlessly at that speed. However, this week I've noticed a slight shaking in the steering wheel when slowing down or braking in city traffic. A friend has recommended her mechanics but, because I don't know them, I'll perform your "stuck caliper" test and fill out your PDF form before my appointment.
Any insight you'd like to add would be very much appreciated!

Brian England

Hi Patricia, I think you are on the right track. Recommendations from friends are the best way to find a good technician. AAA owned shops are very limited in what they do, I would pick an independent shop. Brian

JAMIE JACOBS

I HAVE A 2007 CHEVY COBALT IT JUST STARTED SHAKING YESTERDAY ONCE I HIT 60MPH IT REALLY SHAKES DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA WHAT THAT MIGHT BE

Brian England

Hi Jamie, Have your tires checked asap! They should look for a damaged or worn tire or rim or it could be a wheel weight has fallen off. I am presuming that the vibration is through the steering wheel. Brian

Masroor

Hi Brian,
I have RAV 4 2007, i bought it 3 months back, since beginning my car shakes between 110-120 km/h speed, yesterday tire check done and wheel balancing done, but still the problem is there, could you please suggest something as its annoying
Please note: vibration is little but can be felt on the car, steering is perfectly OK

Brian England

Hi Masroor, I suggest changing the tires front to rear and see if the vibration changes then you know you are dealing with a tire or rim issue. Also having the tires balanced using a "road force" wheel balancer might solve the problem.Make sure the basics have been checked, rims perfectly true! Brakes not dragging etc.
Brian

Ana

Hi brian,
Just wanted to ask. My car is isuzu ertiga 2016. Lately I felt vibration on the steering wheel when im starting the car and more on brake pedal when reversing. I dont know if driving often on brick roads is one the reasons which I observed that the slower I am the more shaky the body is. Was it because of the shock problem.
Thanks a lot.

Brian England

Hi Ana, It sounds more like an engine/transmission mount problem. As it's so new I suggest taking it back to the dealership for a warranty repair. Brian

BKM

I have a 2001 Volvo V70 XC with 320,000 miles. Replaced transmission 8 yrs ago (mechanic used wrong tyrannies fluid) . Replaced engine 3 yrs ago. Good car. Recently had new struts, got new tires. Have noticed rolling vibration thru steering wheel at around 30 mph - 50.I read thru your posts - does it sound like this is more likely a driveline issue?
In addition, I did go off a curb in construction zone 4 months ago and it didn't sound good. I also have had some lack of response in brake system. Mechanic said there is a small crack in brake hose. what do I look for to tell the difference between the issues? I guess it could be both.

Brian England

Hi BKM, If the brakes have an issue I would address that first, a brake hanging could cause the symptoms you describe. Road test for 5 miles see if one wheel is hotter than the rest indicating a siezed caliper or restricted brake hose. Brian

Maneesh

I've the same problem as you mentioned in your first common problem. My car shakes around 55-60 mph only when I push my gas pedal. I went to nearby mechanic and he said it was a transmission problem.Do you think that transmission has anything to do with it?

Brian England

Hi Maneesh, I find it very hard to believe it's a transmission issue, I would be interested in hearing the technicians detailed technical explanation. Bran

Amanda Terry

I have a Buick park avenue...the front end of it recently started wobbling, along the steering wheel, it starts just a tiny bit at 55 mph and gets worse the more speed I pick up. If I brake at any speed over 55 it does it too...someone said it cld be a belt in one of the tires?

Brian England

I does sound like a tire issue, check this along with a brakes, i.e. related to a brake caliper holding on.
Brian

Mike N

I replaced ball joint and wheel bearings the same day i got stuck in mud. Car vibrated like crazy next day on Highway. I went back and replaced the bearings AGAIN and tightened the ball joint nut....but vibration CONTINUED. After feeling for it, i removed rear wheel which got stuck in clay mud and it turns out Mud cacked like concrete onto wheel on the inside side of wheel which you can't see unless you remove tire. It threw the balance off by 200 GMs and violently shook the car.....Look at tire inside and out!!!

Monica Ortiz

Hi Brian,
I download your form, will fill it out on the way to see the mechanic.
Tires popped up in my mind when I first felt it, not saying that's the issue, however, you certainly have confirmed it in your post.
I will be taking it in today.
Thank you for posting this article.
Monica

Anthony Baugh

My car have 105,000 miles on it and run smoothly until recently, start noticing the car shakes when i stop at a red light. When I release the brakes, the shaking stop. I feel it mostly in the car and a little on the steering when. If I stop and put the car in park and leave the engine running, I don't feel it, I only feel it when the engines running and my foot is on the brakes. When I am driving, the shaking stop and car runs smooth.

Brian England

Hi Anthony, It sounds like out of round rotor (brake disc set). Or a rust stop on them. Start with a detailed brake inspection, the whole brake system. Brian

Hello , i have a 2013 touareg , my car shakes at 80 km/h , i have send it at technician. he look at it for one week but can not find the problem.

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